Phoenix In Running To Host 2024-2026 NCAA Final Four Tournaments

The NCAA plans to visit Phoenix this week to consider it among several other cities for hosting the men's basketball championship games in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

In 2017, Phoenix hosted its first National Collegiate Athletic Association's Final Four tournament.

A study by ASU's WP Carey School of Business showed the $13 million investment brought in more than $324 to the economy.

Debbie Johnson, with Arizona's Office of Tourism, estimated the investment will be around $16 million this bid, but expects the economic impact will be slightly higher as well.

"And, then that doesn't take into consideration the long-term impact of the worldwide audience," said Johnson, "that then say, 'Oh, my gosh! I want to go to Arizona next year.'"

Johnson said they suspect the NCAA is looking at venues in at least four other states, including Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio in Texas, Los Angeles, Detroit and Indianapolis.

"We're not taking anything for granted," Johnson assured, "We're working really hard with our partners to make sure that we have all 'I's dotted and the 'Ts' crossed and presenting the best possible proposal, because we want to be a viable destination, but we know we have to work at it, too."

She said that includes working with the Departments of Transportation and Public Safety to ensure dedicated lanes are clear for Final Four traffic to and from the University of Phoenix stadium venue.

The NCAA is expected to announce who will host the 2024 through 2026 tournaments before the end of July.